Family Fun Idea - Facing Fears
April 8th, 2008 . by adminClick here for printable PDF version
From monsters under the bed to storms to bullies at school, most children experience various fears as they grow up. The next time your child expresses a fear, take the opportunity to point him or her closer to God. A scary time can become a fun time.
Here are a few simple tips to help your children learn to trust in God and to depend on Him when facing any fear. You will also find a list of common childhood fears below along with activities specific to each fear.
Step #1 Memorize scripture
This step takes place even before you have a run in with your child’s object of fear. Choose a verse that is generic and will work for any scary situation. Click here for a list of great verses. Make sure you pick a verse that fits your child’s age. Make sure you also talk with your child about how amazing and powerful God is.
Step #2 Pray with your child
Whenever your children are faced with any fear, make sure you pray with them right away. Ask Jesus to protect them and give them strength. It is important to do this no matter how old your child is or what the fear is. If an older child is afraid of doing badly on a test, pray with him. If a younger child is afraid of a dog, pray with her. It is important to seek the ultimate protection, God, first.
Step #3 Discuss it
Take some time to listen to your child as she tells you more about her fears. Then, share from the Bible or your own experience stories of how God has protected them. This would be a fantastic time to go over the scripture you have already memorized.
Step #4 Take some time
Take some time to be with your child, comfort him and point him to Jesus. What you choose to do with this time will depend on your child’s age, where you are, the specific fear, or a number of other factors. Here are a few ideas of things you can do to help your child shift her focus from the obstacle to Christ.
- Sing hymns
- Read the Bible together
- Make a picture of God being stronger than your child’s fear
- Encourage your child to pray
- Write a letter to God together about what your child is scared of
- Role play
- Make verse cards your child can carry in his pocket (older children)
Step #5 Follow up
Continue to pray for your child as you spend your own personal time with God, surrendering her into His hands. Occasionally review the verses your child is learning to combat her fears. Always be ready to listen to anything she has to share with you. Watch as your child’s fear can become an opportunity to grow in Christ.
Click below for activities you can do with your child who struggles with the following fears:
